“This is yet another critical step we’ve taken in insuring the safety of the border and is an important tool in our security toolbox,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano.

Napolitano says government has three unmanned aircraft for border patrol and plans to add three more at the beginning of next year. She says that the drones are just part of the commitment the administration has made to border security.

The president has authorized the deployment of National Guard troops to help patrol the border, and Napolitano says the administration continues to work with Congress on the pursuit of immigration reform legislation.